2010 Kia Sorento First Drive Review
THE 2010 SORENTO is an important model for Kia, and yes, that's a line we seem to use a lot when talking about the smaller Korean's recent new models.
Trying to bust out from under the shadow of its bigger brother (Hyundai) has KIA having to work harder to get its new models noticed, let alone building market share.
Despite the tough economic climate, Hyundai has had an extraordinary year in Australia on the back of a keenly priced, modern and strong product range.
Now it's Kia's turn, if it can get the product mix and pricing right.
The medium SUV market is dominated by the big guns, Kluger, Prado, Captiva and Territory, each with 7000 to 9000-plus sales clocked up for 2009.
Well down that pecking order is the Hyundai Santa Fe (1864 sales at the end of September) and the now superseded Sorento (1012 sales over the same period). So it's a competitive market segment, and one with a truck-load of potential for the manufacturer with a good product at a fair price.
If Kia is going to be anything more than just a sideline player in Australia, it needs its new models to be visually appealing, confidence-inspiring, and serious value-for-money propositions.
Enter the all-new 2010 Sorento.
Styling
Based on the KND-4 concept revealed in 2007, the all-new look of the Sorento is the work of chief designer Peter Schreyer. His influence is evident in the company’s family ‘Schreyer Line’ grille, shared locally by the 2009 Kia Cerato sedan and Koup, and the 2009 Kia Soul.
Despite being 95mm longer than the outgoing model, the new Sorento loses 10mm from its wheelbase and, for a sportier look, 15mm has been chopped from its height.
(6-spd) (RRP)Trim level Engine Trans Drivetrain Seating Price Si 2.4L petrol A/T 2WD 7-seat $36,490 Si 2.2L diesel M/T 4WD 7-seat $39,990 2.2L diesel A/T 4WD 7-seat $41,990 SLi 2.2L diesel A/T 4WD 7-seat $45,990 Platinum 2.2L diesel A/T 4WD 7-seat $48,990